Relaxing Conservation Guidelines for Painting of Murals in Heritage Districts

Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Urban Redevelopment Authority has studied if a relaxation of conservation guidelines around the painting of murals in heritage districts, such as Kampong Gelam, will have a positive impact on tourism and visitation; (b) if so, whether the results of such a study can be released; and (c) if not, whether such a study can be conducted.

Mr Chee Hong Tat: There are many opportunities for mural art in our historic districts to increase vibrancy and footfall, without obscuring key architectural and heritage features of the conserved buildings and affecting the established character and ambience of our historic districts. For example, murals are permitted on the side walls of corner shophouses and rear boundary walls.

The Urban Redevelopment Authority has consulted the Kampong Gelam Alliance and the Heritage and Identity Partnership, both of whom agreed to maintain the prevailing guidelines for murals on conserved shophouses.